Al Jazira ‘to appoint Redknapp as manager’

By Chief Sports Writer — Abu Ahabi

Al Jazira are close to appointing Harry Redknapp as their new manager on a £10 million (Dh55.8m) deal, Britain’s The Sun newspaper reported yesterday.

Redknapp, 68, has been out of work since resigning as QPR manager in February. Yesterday, the Englishman denied he was set to replace Steve McLaren as boss of English Premier League strugglers Newcastle United.

New challenge

He does, however, want a new challenge and has been out in Dubai for a break with wife Sandra — although his agent Barry O’Connor told The Sun that the trip was not work-related.

“That’s just pure coincidence, although I can confirm there is a chance Harry will be working with Al Jazira,” O’Connor said.

Al Jazira, The Sun claim, want to tap into the former Tottenham and West Ham boss Redknapp’s knowledge of the transfer market, to bring in some big names in the January transfer window.

Top of the list, the tabloid says, is ex-Tottenham and Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor, who is available on a free transfer as he is out of contract.

O’Connor added: “Harry is wanted by Jazira to help with their current position. His knowledge is second to none and he would be able to speak to quality players about playing in the UAE.”

Languishing in 11th

Al Jazira are languishing in 11th place after a disastrous season under the man who led them to their last AGL title in 2011, Abel Braga.

Gulf News contacted Al Jazira’s press spokesman for a comment yesterday evening and he said he would check with the club.